Browsing by Subject "biodiversity"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Publication
    Open Access
    Herzog Vindicated: Integrative Taxonomy Reveals That Trichostomum brachydontium (Pottiaceae, Bryophyta) Comprises Several Species
    (2022-01-21) Porley, Ron D.; Ros Espín, Rosa María; Werner, Olaf; Biología Vegetal
    The morphologically variable moss Trichostomum brachydontium is very common in south and west Europe, particularly under Mediterranean and Atlantic climates. A morphological study was conducted alongside a molecular phylogenetic study based on nr ITS and cp-rbcL regions in order to assess if T. brachydontium is an exceptionally polymorphic species as evidenced by the number of described infraspecific taxa in the last century or, alternatively, if it includes more than one species, and if so, to find the valid name for them. Phylogenetic analyses of both nuclear and chloroplast datasets show that there are four well-supported clades. While the ITS-based tree is in good agreement with the morphological data, there are a few inconsistencies with reference to the rbcL tree; this may be explained by incomplete lineage sorting by hybridization or by the persistence of isolated ancestral molecular races. The morphological survey revealed well-defined discriminate differences between the four phylogenetic lineages. The taxonomic conclusions include the recognition of four species: T. brachydontium s.s., T. herzogii (a new name proposed for var. cuspidatum), T. littorale, and T. meridionale (a new name proposed for var. densum). Lectotypes are designated for T. brachydontium and T. littorale. Our results underline the ongoing need of integrative studies to examine further the underestimated diversity of the T. brachydontium complex in other regions.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Publication
    Open Access
    Relaciones agua-suelo-vegetación.-Directrices de manejo y gestión de sistemas forestales en el Municipio de Murcia
    Zapata Pérez, V.M.; Robledano Aymerich, Francisco; Jiménez, M.V.; Farinós, P.; Universidad de Murcia
    ABSTRACT Most forest systems in the municipality of Murcia are old afforestations with Pinus halepensis. In many sites, the unsuitability of the habitat for this species has led to a poor tree development, and to a strong competence for resources that increases environmental stress. We have studied patches of forests protected by the municipality of Murcia (Forest Parks of Majal Blanco, Montepinar and Los Polvorines) and other unprotected patches close to these. The objective was to study their composition, structure and ecological dynamics. The results indicate that these pinewoods are in poor condition with a scarce development for an age of 50 years (DBH between 10 and 16 cm and height between 4-8 m). Also, crown cover seems to be negatively related with chamaephytes cover. This point is relevant given the importance of this group in arid and semi-arid ecosystems. Other relevant aspect was the close relationship between the pine trees and the regeneration of fleshy-fruit scrubland species (Rhamnus, Olea), probably through facilitation processes. The results suggest a series of management and conservation measures, such as decreasing pine density to generate a forested scrubland. This could improve chamaephyte abundance and richness while keeping bird perches to facilitate scrubland regeneration, and at the same time increase water availability and alleviate the competence for soil resources. The potential of these forest fragments to improve biodiversity at the patch and landscape scale can be enhanced through an urban-agri-forest integration that combines site management and land use planning in the municipality.